Medicare
Medicare and COBRA: what to know before you rely on COBRA
COBRA coverage does not let you delay Medicare Part B the way coverage from a current job can. Relying on COBRA past your Medicare eligibility can mean a late penalty and coverage gaps, so sort out the timing first.
What to know
- Coverage through current work can let you delay Part B without penalty. COBRA and retiree coverage generally do not.
- Medicare may pay first when COBRA overlaps, so a claim can be denied if you are not enrolled.
- Once you are enrolled in Medicare, COBRA may end for you.
What to do
If you are nearing 65 or already on COBRA, ask when your Medicare starts and whether delaying Part B would cost you a penalty. A special enrollment period can apply when you lose coverage from current work, but COBRA does not usually count as that coverage.
Have this ready when you call
- Your date of birth
- The date your job coverage ended
- Your COBRA paperwork
Common questions
Can I stay on COBRA instead of Medicare?
You can try, but you risk a late Part B penalty and unpaid claims. Ask first.
What about a spouse's COBRA?
The same timing rules matter for each person's own Medicare eligibility.
Related answers
Rather talk it through?
Call 855-367-1095 and a licensed agent will go through your situation with you. There is no charge to ask, and no obligation to enroll.
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GetFastRates.com is not connected with or endorsed by the U.S. government or the federal Medicare program. Calling connects you with licensed insurance help. Plan availability, costs, benefits, and enrollment rules can vary by state, carrier, and individual situation.